Wolsey Square Planters After-Care Plan May 2023 (PDF)
The planters and herb garden at the Wolsey statue were installed in May 2023 on the theme of ‘Tudor plants with medicinal properties’. Cardinal Thomas Wolsey was thought to have be born near the area in 1473.
Although a butcher’s son, Wolsey rose to a powerful position within the Court of Henry VIII as Cardinal and Lord Chancellor and the Pope’s representative in England. In Tudor times, gardens were often designed to provide food and medicine, and the herbs that have been planted near his statue are a nod to this tradition.
Planters near the Wolsey statue
The planters outside “On the Huh” contain herbs that were thought to have beneficial properties for the lungs, heart, digestion and headache. An extensive list of herbs chosen for their medicinal properties in Tudor times is provided below.
Some of the herbs that were planted for lung health include:
- Elecampane (Inula helenium): This herb was used to treat coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. It was also used to stimulate the appetite and improve digestion.
- Horehound (Marrubium vulgare): This herb was used to treat coughs, colds, and sore throats. It was also used to relieve congestion and ease breathing.
- Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis): This herb was used to treat lung diseases such as bronchitis and pneumonia. It was also used to soothe a sore throat and cough.
- Marjoram (Origanum majorana): This herb was used to treat respiratory problems such as bronchitis and asthma. It was also used to improve digestion and relieve indigestion.
- Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): This herb was used to treat respiratory problems such as bronchitis and asthma. It was also used to improve digestion and relieve indigestion.
Some of the herbs that were planted for heart health include:
- Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna): This herb was used to improve heart function and circulation. It was also used to treat high blood pressure and angina.
- Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca): This herb was used to calm the nerves and improve heart function. It was also used to treat anxiety and insomnia.
- Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): This herb was used to improve circulation and memory. It was also used to treat headaches and indigestion.
- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): This herb was used to calm the nerves and improve sleep. It was also used to treat anxiety and insomnia.
- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): This herb was used to stop bleeding and improve circulation. It was also used to treat headaches and indigestion.
Some of the herbs that were planted for headache relief include:
- Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): This herb was used to relieve headaches, anxiety, and insomnia. It was also used to soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation.
- Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium): This herb was used to prevent and treat migraines. It was also used to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): This herb was used to relieve headaches, anxiety, and insomnia. It was also used to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
- Peppermint (Mentha piperita): This herb was used to relieve headaches, nausea, and indigestion. It was also used to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
- Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): This herb was used to relieve headaches, improve circulation, and improve memory. It was also used to treat anxiety and insomnia.
Some of the herbs that were planted for digestion health include:
- Anise (Pimpinella anisum): This herb was used to relieve indigestion, gas, and bloating. It was also used to stimulate the appetite and improve digestion.
- Caraway (Carum carvi): This herb was used to relieve indigestion, gas, and bloating. It was also used to stimulate the appetite and improve digestion.
- Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): This herb was used to soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation. It was also used to relieve headaches, anxiety, and insomnia.
- Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum): This herb was used to improve digestion and relieve indigestion. It was also used to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
- Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): This herb was used to improve digestion and relieve indigestion. It was also used to detoxify the body and improve liver function.
Planters near the Wolsey statue
The herbs would be harvested when they were in their prime, and then they would be dried or preserved for later use. The dried herbs would be stored in jars or bags, and they would be used to make teas, infusions, and other herbal remedies